Tana River Senator Danson Mungatana has officially filed a censure motion against Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, raising concerns over what he terms “unacceptable conduct” for a state officer. Mungatana, popularly known for his outspoken nature, cited Gachagua’s behaviour as inconsistent with the leadership standards expected of the Deputy President’s office.
Highlights:
- Senator Mungatana files a censure motion against Deputy President Gachagua.
- The motion accuses Gachagua of undermining national unity through divisive statements.
- Gachagua’s remarks on employment, resource allocation, and county directives are under scrutiny.
Motion Citing Misconduct
In the notice of motion, Mungatana pointed out that under Article 260 of the Constitution, Gachagua is bound by the Leadership and Integrity Act. The Deputy President is categorised as a state officer, required to uphold ethical behaviour, national unity, and the principles of governance as stated in Article 75 of the Constitution. According to Mungatana, Gachagua’s recent public utterances have violated these principles.
“The Deputy President, as the principal assistant to the President, is a symbol of national unity. His conduct and speech must adhere to the highest standards of integrity and promote cohesion among all Kenyans,” Mungatana stated in the motion.
Mungatana expressed alarm over the Deputy President’s remarks on employment opportunities, resource allocation to devolved units, and his comments encouraging certain communities to defy lawful directives. The senator claimed that these statements risked inflaming ethnic tensions and eroding public trust in the Deputy President’s office.
Gachagua’s Conduct Under Fire
Senator Mungatana argued that Gachagua’s behaviour since assuming office has often been divisive. He particularly pointed to the Deputy President’s controversial statements on how public jobs should be distributed among communities, as well as comments perceived as undermining county governments.
“These actions go against the constitutional mandate to uphold national values, including inclusivity, fairness, and respect for the law,” the senator added.
Mungatana emphasised that Gachagua’s role should be to foster national cohesion and act in a manner befitting the office of the Deputy President, not to stoke divisions or encourage disobedience to lawful government directives.
Political Tensions Rise
The censure motion comes at a time of rising tensions within the ruling United Democratic Alliance (UDA) party. Recently, rumours have been swirling about a potential impeachment of the Deputy President, with a faction within UDA reportedly pushing for the motion.
Barely a day before the motion was filed, Gachagua publicly warned President William Ruto against betrayal politics, fuelling speculation about a growing rift between the two leaders. Gachagua’s comments have further intensified discussions on his role in the government and whether his leadership style aligns with the expectations of the presidency.
With the censure motion now on the table, all eyes are on the Senate as political dynamics within the government continue to shift. Whether the motion will lead to significant consequences for Gachagua or fuel further divisions remains to be seen.